nux vomica Hear it!

nux vomica definition

nux· vom·ica (nuks′ väm′i kə)

  1. the poisonous, disklike seed of an Asiatic tree (Strychnos nux-vomica) of the logania family, containing strychnine, brucine, and other alkaloids
  2. the tree bearing these seeds
  3. a medicine made from the seed, formerly used as a heart stimulant

Etymology: ML < L nux, nut + vomere, to vomit

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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